Ontario Premier Doug Ford has expressed strong disapproval of the reported discussions between Stellantis and a Chinese automaker, Zhejiang Leapmotor Technology, regarding potentially manufacturing Chinese electric vehicles at the Brampton assembly plant in Canada. The talks, as per a Bloomberg News report, follow Stellantis’ purchase of a 21 per cent stake in Leapmotor for $1.6 billion in 2023, leading to the formation of Leapmotor International, a joint venture with Stellantis holding a majority stake.
President of Unifor, Lana Payne, revealed that Stellantis is exploring various options for the Brampton plant, including collaboration with Leapmotor. Ford, speaking to CBC News in Dallas, expressed strong opposition to the idea, emphasizing the negative impact on Ontario autoworkers if such a deal were to proceed.
The Brampton plant, which employed around 3,000 workers, ceased operations in late 2023 for retooling to accommodate the production of the Jeep Compass. Following the imposition of tariffs by former U.S. President Donald Trump, Stellantis temporarily halted work at the plant and subsequently relocated Jeep production to Illinois in October 2025.
Stellantis has not made any official announcements regarding the reported talks. Company spokesperson LouAnn Gosselin stated that Stellantis is seeking to establish a sustainable future program at the Brampton facility to ensure long-term support for workers and suppliers, emphasizing a commitment to a robust Canadian presence.
Unifor’s Payne raised concerns about the potential impact of partnership with Chinese manufacturers on Ontario’s auto industry, advocating for policies that prioritize domestic manufacturing and employment. Ford echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of Ontario-made cars assembled with local parts by Ontario workers.
The Canadian government’s $529 million deal with Stellantis in 2022, aimed at safeguarding jobs at the Brampton plant until 2035, has faced scrutiny following the relocation of Jeep production to the U.S. A dispute resolution process was initiated last year to address concerns over the move, with ongoing engagements between the government, Stellantis, Unifor, and Ontario to secure production and jobs.
Moreover, recent trade agreements allowing Chinese electric vehicles into the Canadian market at reduced tariffs have drawn attention, underscoring the evolving dynamics in the automotive sector. The government’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for domestic auto manufacturing remains a key priority amid industry developments.